Introduction
Dive into the delightful world of baking with this scrumptious gingerbread loaf recipe. Combining warm spices and the rich flavors of molasses, this treat is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy winter evening or a festive gathering. Topped with a creamy icing, this gingerbread loaf is sure to become a family favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Dough:
– All-purpose flour
– Instant yeast
– Ground ginger
– Ground cinnamon
– Ground cloves
– Salt
– Sugar
– Milk
– Butter
– Blackstrap molasses
– Egg
For the Filling:
– Butter
– Brown sugar
– Ground cinnamon
– Ground ginger
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
– Cream cheese
– Butter
– Milk
– Vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar
Prep Time
Preparation for this gingerbread loaf takes approximately 15 minutes. This includes mixing the ingredients to create the dough and preparing the filling.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 35 minutes, leading to a total time of approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, including rising times. This recipe yields one delicious gingerbread loaf. Enjoy this flavorful treat warm, with a drizzle of cream cheese icing on top.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine all-purpose flour, instant yeast, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, salt, and sugar. Add milk, butter, blackstrap molasses, and egg to the dry ingredients. Using the dough hook or spiral attachment, mix until the ingredients are well combined. Knead the dough for approximately 7 minutes until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl. If the dough is too sticky, add a small amount of flour to adjust the consistency.
First Rise:
Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and cover it. Let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 2 hours.
Prepare the Filling:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out to approximately ¼ inch thickness. Evenly spread softened butter over the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger evenly over the buttered dough.
Assemble the Loaf:
Cut the dough into 2-inch squares using a pizza cutter or knife. Thoroughly grease a 12-cup Bundt pan. Arrange the dough squares inside the pan, standing them up in a row as much as possible.
Second Rise:
Cover the pan and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until nearly doubled in size.
Bake:
Preheat the oven to 325ºF (163ºC). Once preheated, place the Bundt pan in the center of the oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown on top and fully cooked through.
Cool and Invert:
Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes. Loosen the bread from the pan using an icing spatula or similar tool. Invert the pan onto a cooling rack to release the loaf.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing:
In a bowl, combine cream cheese, butter, milk, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Finish:
Drizzle the prepared cream cheese icing over the cooled gingerbread loaf before serving.
Notes
Dough Consistency:
Ensure the dough is soft but not overly sticky. Adjust with flour as necessary during the kneading process.
Rising Environment:
Create a warm environment for the dough to rise, such as placing it near a warm oven or in a slightly heated area.
Bundt Pan Preparation:
Make sure the Bundt pan is thoroughly greased to prevent the loaf from sticking during the inversion process.
Serving Size:
This recipe yields a 12-cup loaf, perfect for sharing or serving at gatherings.
Icing Variation:
Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the cream cheese icing by adding more or less powdered sugar according to your taste preference.
Cook techniques
Kneading Dough
Kneading the dough is crucial for developing the gluten structure, which gives the bread its texture. Use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough for about 7 minutes until it becomes elastic and pulls away from the bowl.
First Rise
Allow the dough to rise in a warm environment until it has doubled in size. This process, known as fermentation, helps develop the flavor and texture of the bread.
Rolling Out the Dough
When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness of about ¼ inch. This ensures uniform cooking and an even distribution of the filling.
Arranging the Dough Squares
When cutting and arranging the dough squares in the Bundt pan, stand them up vertically to create a visually appealing loaf. This technique allows for even baking and easy separation of individual pieces.
Second Rise
The second rise is essential for the dough to expand further, contributing to a light and fluffy texture. Cover the pan and let the dough rise in a warm space for about 30 minutes.
Baking
Bake the bread at 325ºF (163ºC) until golden brown. This lower temperature allows for even cooking and prevents the exterior from burning before the inside is done.
Cooling and Inverting
After baking, allow the bread to cool briefly in the pan. This helps it firm up, making it easier to remove from the pan without breaking.
Preparing Cream Cheese Icing
Blend cream cheese, butter, milk, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth. This icing adds a rich, creamy finish to the gingerbread loaf.
FAQ
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can use active dry yeast, but you’ll need to activate it in warm water first before mixing with the other ingredients.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise, and then refrigerate it. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and proceeding with the recipe.
How should I store the gingerbread loaf?
Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for up to a week.
Can I freeze the gingerbread loaf?
Yes, the gingerbread loaf can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What variations can I make to the filling?
You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or different spices to the filling mix for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Indulging in this delightful gingerbread loaf, with its warm spices and creamy icing, brings a touch of comfort and joy to any occasion. The combination of flavors from the dough and filling culminates in a perfect treat, ideal for sharing or enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. With a simple preparation process, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning loaf that not only looks impressive but bursts with flavor.
Gingerbread Muffins
Transform the dough into individual muffins by placing the filled batter into a muffin tin. Adjust baking time to about 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Spiced Apple Filling
Create a twist by adding cooked apples mixed with cinnamon and sugar to the filling for a fruity variation.
Nutty Cream Cheese Swirl
Incorporate chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the filling or the cream cheese icing for added texture and flavor.
Chocolate Gingerbread Loaf
Mix cocoa powder into the dough to create a chocolate-infused version of the loaf and pair it with the cream cheese icing for a rich dessert.
Caramel Drizzle Topping
Enhance the cream cheese icing by adding a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for an extra sweet touch.
Gluten-Free Alternative
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free gingerbread delight that everyone can enjoy.
Gingerbread Ice Cream Sandwiches
Slice the cooled loaf into thick pieces and sandwich your favorite ice cream between them for a delicious dessert twist.
